An explanation of the psychology of cross-dressing and how it effects the cross-dresser, family, and friends.
A discussion of the human sexuality of cross-dressing as it relates to psychology. The paper investigates the findings published in several books and journals concerning cross-dressing. The research also focuses on the treatments that are available for individuals that cross-dress and their families. The paper begins by defining cross-dressing and the psychological factors that can lead to the behavior.
“Defining Cross Dressing can be a rather arduous task because it is a complex subject. One of the main topics that come to mind when addressing the subject is gender identity. (Bullough) A book entitled, Cross Dressing, Sex and Gender, explains that gender identity “is the total perception of the individual about his or her own gender. It includes a basic personal identity as a boy or girl, man or woman, as well as personal judgments about the individual’s level of conformity to the societal norms of masculinity and femininity. (Bullough). The author goes on to explain that gender roles or the way that men and women are seen in society, can also contribute to cross dressing behavior.